RABAT: The latest clashes in the Africa Cup of Nations set up a dramatic quarter-final. Following hard-fought victories in Rabat, tournament hosts and favourites Morocco are now scheduled to face five-time champions Cameroon in a tie which believe could decide the eventual winner.

Moroccan continued their march toward a first continental title in half a century, but not without a significant scare. Facing a resilient Tanzania side at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the Atlas Lions dominated possession but struggled to dismantle a stubborn defence.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 64th minute through Brahim Díaz, who has arguably become the linchpin of Walid Regragui’s attacking setup.

Díaz made history by becoming the first Moroccan player to score in four consecutive AFCON matches, slotting home from a tight angle after a clever feed from Achraf Hakimi. While Tanzania squandered several gilt-edged chances to equalize—most notably a glaring miss from Feisal Salum—the hosts held on for a 1-0 win, keeping their dream of a home-soil triumph alive.

Later Cameroon booked their place alongside the hosts with a gritty 2-1 victory over South Africa.

The “Indomitable Lions” lived up to their name, weathering an early storm from Bafana Bafana before striking with clinical precision.Junior Tchamadeu opened the scoring in the 34th minute, firing home after a fortuitous deflection. Shortly after the interval, 19-year-old Bayer Leverkusen sensation Christian Kofane doubled the lead with a towering header.

Although South Africa’s Evidence Makgopa pulled a goal back in the 88th minute to ensure a frantic finale, Cameroon’s defensive resolve saw them through.

The results set the stage for a mouth-watering quarter-final on Friday. For Morocco, the match represents the ultimate test of their title credentials against a Cameroonian side that historically thrives under pressure.

With close to 70,000 fans expected to roar the Atlas Lions on in Rabat, the atmosphere will be electric. However, Cameroon’s pedigree in this competition means they will not be intimidated by the home crowd. As the bracket narrows, this heavyweight collision is already being billed as the “final before the final.”

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